MANILA, Philippines — The El Niño phenomenon over the tropical Pacific has escalated to a “very strong” intensity, heightening the threat of rainfall shortages and drought across several areas in the Philippines, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported.
In an advisory released on Thursday, November 5, the weather bureau stated that the climate pattern is projected to peak before the end of 2026, with its environmental impacts likely carrying over into the first half of 2027.
While El Niño inherently triggers below-normal rainfall leading to dry spells and dry conditions, PAGASA noted that isolated heavy downpours could still happen due to tropical cyclone passages and other rain-bearing weather systems.
Impact Assessment and Outlook
PAGASA’s latest monitoring data indicates that meteorological drought affected five provinces in October 2026, while 11 provinces experienced dry spells and 10 others recorded dry conditions.
For the month of November, most parts of the country are anticipated to receive below-normal to way-below-normal rainfall. Consequently, several more provinces are expected to encounter drought or dry spell conditions before the month concludes. Alongside reduced precipitation, warmer-than-average mean air temperatures will prevail nationwide.
Call for Resource Management
In light of the intensifying climate cycle, state meteorologists urged both the public and relevant government bodies to proactively roll out mitigation measures and conservation strategies to buffer against potential losses.
PAGASA placed strong emphasis on the optimization of water systems and aggressive conservation efforts to preserve vital resources during the prolonged dry period.